Summer Off-Road Safety Tips

The phrase "plan for the best, prepare for the worst" is one to live by when it comes to off-roading. While you expect a smooth, fun day on the trails, it is still important to be prepared for an off day. After all, off-roading is a particularly unpredictable hobby. Therefore, it is important to prepare for everything that you can. Doing this starts with putting together an emergency kit. This should include a tire repair kit, a tool kit, tow straps, extra fuel, extra coolant, an air compressor, a jack, and other essential items for trailside repairs. A winch is an excellent accessory to have, as it allows you to pull yourself out of a sticky situation without relying on another vehicle. In addition to items for your vehicle in case of emergencies, you should also prepare yourself for an emergency with items like additional water, non-perishable foods, a first aid kit, and preparations for an overnight stay.

Another phrase to live by while off-roading is "as fast as possible, as slow as necessary." This is because it is essential to keep up momentum on the trails while off-roading, especially on uneven terrain. However, you want to do so while remaining in total control of the vehicle because, as you may know, a fraction of an inch can be the difference between a great day of wheeling and some costly repairs. Therefore, it's essential to balance your speed so that you have enough momentum to keep you heading in the right direction while staying in total control of where the vehicle is pointing. A great example of this phrase is the average speed on the Rubicon Trail in California. On average, Rubicon Trail riders drive at three MPH, with some sections of trail requiring one MPH and others allowing for up to 5 MPH. 

Another critical tip for off-roading is to never go alone. This goes along with preparing for the worst before venturing out. While it's easy to be confident in our abilities and assume everything will go smoothly, things can happen, and issues can arise. If you off-road with another driver, however, you have another vehicle to help pull you out if you get stuck and another person to help with any trailside repairs. Joining a local Jeep group in your area is a great way to make connections with other off-roaders to hit the trails with. If you're just starting out, it's a great idea to venture out with someone with more experience and who knows the trails you'll be riding.

While all the tips above are important, there can be no off-roading without a properly functioning vehicle. To keep your Jeep in peak condition, it needs routine maintenance. If you do most of your off-roading in the summertime, the early months of summer are the best time to give your Jeep a thorough inspection. You should start by checking the lights, both factory and auxiliary, to ensure they are all fully functional. You should also take a look under the hood and check the lines and hoses for cracks or leaks. You should also check the fluid levels, including the engine oil, coolant, washer fluid, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. You should also ensure that your battery is securely fastened, as vibrations can damage its cells. Most important is to check the tread of your tires and the tire pressure. This is essential as your tires are the one thing connecting your Jeep to the trail below. If your vehicle needs any repairs or you'd like a professional opinion on the inspection, don't hesitate to bring it to the skilled service team here at Junction Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram!

When you bring your Jeep to the service center here at Junction Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, it will be examined and serviced by a certified technician with years of experience. Plus, if you're looking to upgrade your Jeep and its off-road capabilities, we stock hundreds of Jeep Performance Parts. If you're in the market for a new Jeep, we have dozens of new and used Jeep models ready for your choosing. Use the contact form below this page to reach us regarding service, our Jeep inventory, or to inquire about parts. We look forward to hearing from you soon!